The Maryland Division of Correction hospice program

Area of Science:

• Correctional healthcare
• Palliative care
• Public health

Background:

• Maryland's prison system faces a growing population of elderly and chronically ill inmates.
• A significant number of inmates have HIV/AIDS, requiring specialized care.
• Existing medical parole options are insufficient for all terminally ill individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of a prison hospice program in Maryland.
• To identify challenges and successes in providing end-of-life care within a correctional setting.

Main Methods:

• Collaboration between the Maryland Division of Correction, a community hospice, and a Ryan White SPNS grant.
• Establishment of dedicated hospice facilities within correctional centers.
• Adherence to program criteria including prognosis, DNR orders, and patient consent.

Main Results:

• One prison hospice site is operational, with a second planned.
• Medical parole is utilized, but not always feasible for terminally ill inmates.
• Challenges include balancing security with care needs, visitation, dietary requirements, and inmate volunteer roles.

Conclusions:

• Maryland's prison hospice program is an evolving initiative addressing end-of-life care needs.
• Successful implementation requires ongoing communication and cooperation between correctional staff and hospice providers.
• Addressing logistical and ethical challenges is crucial for program sustainability.